Upstate News

February 9, 2005
Darryl Geddes 315 464-4828

SUNY Upstate drug study seeks patients with Crohn’s disease

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – SUNY Upstate Medical University is seeking individuals with Crohn’s disease for a study testing the efficacy of the drug Leukine. Currently used in preventing infection in certain types of cancer therapy, Leukine helps stimulate immune cells that may be helpful in strengthening the immune system of the intestine.

The study seeks individuals over the age of 18 who have been diagnosed with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease. Subjects can be taking Mesalamine drugs, but cannot be on steroids or other immunosuppressants.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines. It primarily causes ulcerations in the small and large intestines, but can affect the digestive system anywhere between the mouth and the anus. Diarrhea, rectal bleeding and abdominal pain are frequent symptoms of Crohn’s disease.